Is Organic Wheat Worth The Extra Dough?

Sure, organic grains are better for the environment, but are they healthier for you?

A recent Stanford University study suggests that the nutritional differences between conventional and organic foods are negligible. But in a competing study, researchers at the Organic Center found powerful reasons to stick with organic wheat: Grown without pesticides, it may develop more robust chemical defenses against environmental stresses and predators—and many of the protective compounds act as antioxidants, says Erin Smith, senior science consultant with the Organic Center. Deeper root systems also allow the plants to draw more minerals from the soil, and organic farmers tend to plant older or native varieties, which are frequently more nutritious.

Plus, when it comes to bread, going organic means side-stepping the monster that's known as frankenwheat—the shorter, stockier "dwarf wheat" that now, after decades of cross-breeding and hybridization, makes up almost all of the wheat we consume. "Frankenwheat codes for a much larger variety of gluten proteins, or 'super gluten,' " says Mark Hyman, MD, author of the New York Times best-selling book The Blood Sugar Solution. "It also contains high levels of a 'super starch' called amylopectin A, which excels at making both Cinabons and bellies swell."

Worried organic grains won't taste as good as what you're used to? We've got 5 recipes straight from Maria's Farm Country Kitchen to ease your mind:

French ToastQuick and easy, this French toast recipe is something you can make anytime.

Huevos RancherosHow can a whole-wheat tortilla topped with organic eggs, mexicali beans, shredded cheese, and fresh salsa and guac be anything but delicious? Exactly. Even better, this breakfast keeps you full until dinnertime. (Want more? Check out 13 filling morning meals.)

Garlic ChickenThis crowd-pleasing chicken calls for few ingredients and a whole lot of taste. Bonus: you can make it with any kind of chicken. And if you use skinless and boneless, it's kind of like a homemade chicken nugget (with garlic). Yum!

Crispy Mac & CheeseWe've got two words for a recipe that separates organic whole wheat pasta and bread crumbs with a ton of cheese: Yes, please! Whip this up for your next big party or even a weeknight dinner.

Banana Walnut Muffins If store-bought versions with their excess sugar and calories weren't enough to get you to jump ship, then this will: You only need one bowl to make these muffins. Guilt-free grains and minimal clean-up? We don't mind if we do!